Sri Lanka Opens First Honorary Consulate in the Philippines’ Davao City
Davao City, The Gulf Observer: Sri Lanka has officially inaugurated its first Honorary Consulate in the Philippines, with the new office opening in Davao City as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance consular services.
The inauguration ceremony, held on 25 July, was led by Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath, marking a significant milestone as the two countries celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
According to officials, the Honorary Consulate will improve consular services for Sri Lankan nationals and Philippine citizens in the Mindanao region while supporting closer cooperation between the two countries.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Herath described the establishment of the Consulate as both a practical initiative to enhance consular assistance and a symbol of the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and the Philippines.
He said the new mission would also serve as a platform to expand collaboration in key areas, including trade, tourism, investment, education, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people relations.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr. Chanaka Talpahewa, government officials, and members of the Sri Lankan community residing in the Philippines.
Officials expressed confidence that the opening of the Honorary Consulate would further strengthen diplomatic engagement and promote broader economic and cultural cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Philippines.
